Physical Education and Sport Bachelor of Arts (with Honours) - BA (Hons)

Physical Education and Sport BA (Hons) explores how sport, physical education and physical activity are delivered, organised and experienced within schools, communities and wider society. You'll develop a critical understanding of the role sport plays in education, health, participation and social development while exploring the factors that influence involvement and achievement.

Throughout the course, you'll study key areas of sport and physical education, including pedagogy, coaching, inclusive practice, physical development and sports development. You'll be encouraged to examine contemporary issues and debates within the sector while reflecting on your own experiences and developing your professional identity.

A strong emphasis is placed on applying theory in practice. Through practical activities, you'll develop your teaching skills while gaining experience delivering activities to children and adults. Work placements, study visits and opportunities for teaching and community coaching practice help you connect academic knowledge with professional experience.

The course benefits from strong links with schools, community organisations and sporting partners including Northampton Saints, Northampton Town Football Club, Northamptonshire Sport and Northampton Swim Club. These relationships help provide valuable opportunities for placements, internships, volunteering and professional development.

Alongside your degree, you'll be encouraged to enhance your employability through qualifications, practical experiences and extracurricular opportunities that support your career goals.

By graduation, you'll have developed the knowledge, practical skills and professional experience needed to pursue careers in sport development, physical education and community sport coaching, while also providing a strong foundation for further teacher training and postgraduate study.

By studying at the University of Northampton, you can be sure that:

At the University of Northampton, you’ll benefit from a supportive, career-focused experience designed to help you succeed.

Personalised learning

Study in small groups led by expert academics, with dedicated one-to-one support. Our close-knit community ensures you receive individual guidance while being challenged to achieve your best.

Built for your future

Whatever your goals, we’ll help you get there. You’ll develop valuable skills, discover your strengths, and gain real-world experience - so you’re ready to stand out when applying for jobs or further study.

Guaranteed accommodation

We guarantee a room in our Halls of Residence for all new full-time first-year students who apply and accept their offer by June 2027\*.

Exceptional student benefits

You’ll receive a brand-new laptop at no additional cost\*\*, and all essential textbooks are available through our library - helping you save money throughout your studies.

A modern campus experience

Study at our student-led purpose-built Waterside Campus, designed to provide an inspiring and dynamic environment for learning and student life. Visit us at an Open Day to see it for yourself.

Northampton Employability Promise

We’re confident you’ll graduate ready to launch your career. If you’re not in employment within six months, you’ll receive dedicated support from a Careers Development Consultant. If you’re still seeking opportunities after that, we’ll offer you a paid internship.

✱ Eligibility criteria apply. See northampton.ac.uk/student-life/accommodation/ for more information\
✱✱ Eligibility criteria and terms and conditions apply. See northampton.ac.uk/benefits for more information

^Calculations are based on Office for Students (OfS) data from the average positivity score across all NSS questions for this subject area across all modes and levels at UK Universities.